Special Message

Panhandle ILC is your "Key to Independence" a symbol of the assistance and encouragement we offer to people with disabilities. More than 40 years ago in California, a group of people living in nursing homes simply because they were disabled, refused to give up their rights. Working together, they formed the first Independent Living Center, left the nursing homes, and began advocating for themselves.

This spirit continues in Centers all across America and in Amarillo where we help fill in the gaps left by other agencies. We encourage people to become their own advocates, take risks, accept responsibility, and gain control over their own lives. It's about participating as full and equal members of the community.

The philosophy behind Independent Living is that: "Everyone, regardless of disability, should have equal access to the rights and responsibilities that each citizen has to be as active and productive a member of society as he chooses to be."

PILC Classes Help Beat The Winter Doldrums

Diane Campa’s craft class was packed with consumers who enjoyed a respite from winter weather.

From February to March, PILC’s life skills classes provided useful activities as well as a cure for wintry cabin fever!

Extraordinary storms ranging from a few inches to a foot of snow were common around Amarillo where travel was often limited this season. Cars and buses frequently navigated small mountains of snow that took weeks to thaw. So it seemed that when sunny days were available, consumers rushed to attend PILC classes to enjoy a break from snow-bound homes.

Cooking and crafts classes were most popular among consumers who enjoy the interactive courses. Cooking classes conducted by Cynthia Pacheco provide nutritional information, kitchen safety and lessons in microwave cooking. Consumers prepare the food items while following recipes and often a budget.

PILC’s craft classes help improve consumers’ motor skills, creativity and social interaction. Led by Diane Campa, consumers of all ages flex their artistic abilities while following instructions. Diane said, “I try to find projects that motivate consumers and build self-confidence. They have fun, and they get to express themselves.”

Along with these and other life skills classes, PILC offers various support groups that provide opportunities for fellowship that can help “break the ice” during cold winter days.